Will Smith May Take Over Role of Genie in ‘Aladdin’ Remake: Wish, Granted

His wish might soon be your command: a new report says Will Smith could play the famously energized genie in a forthcoming remake of the classic animated film Aladdin. Never had a friend like him, etc.!

The role, first voiced by Robin Williams in the 1992 cartoon, could soon be Smith's, according to Deadline. The site says the actor is definitely in the running for the part in Guy Ritchie's live action remake, and while his rumored casting in a remake of Dumbo never materialized, his Aladdin inclusion seems likelier.

The Aladdin remake is scheduled to begin filming in July in the United Kingdom and wrap in early 2018. John August wrote the script based on the origin film and Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich will serve as producers.

The original Aladdin, released by Disney 25 years ago, tells the story of a homeless young man named Aladdin who stumbles upon some good luck when he unearths a magic lamp that yields a wish-granting genie. Aladdin eventually finds love in Princess Jasmine, who mistakes him for a prince, and a villain in the evil Jafar, who seeks the princess' hand in marriage.

The first Aladdin grossed $504 million at the box office and was the single most successful film of 1992.